Best Missouri LPN to RN/BSN Programs 2026
Missouri’s LPN to RN programs provide practical nurses with opportunities to advance their education. Coursework includes complex patient care, leadership, and nursing ethics. Clinical training supports licensure preparation and professional growth as a registered nurse.
2026 Best LPN to RN Programs in Missouri
Missouri Western State University
Saint Joseph, MO - Public 4-Year - missouriwestern.edu
Associate - LPN-BSN Pathway
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Missouri Western State University's LPN-BSN Pathway is a hybrid program that enables Licensed Practical Nurses to efficiently earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. It requires an unencumbered PN license, a minimum 2.7 GPA, and 120 credit hours, with flexible admission dates and credit for prior LPN experience. The program emphasizes NCLEX preparation and is accredited, offering a blend of online and in-person coursework tailored for working nurses.
- Pathway for LPNs to BSN
- Hybrid program delivery
- Minimum 2.7 GPA required
- 120 total credit hours
- Unencumbered PN license needed
- Credit evaluation for LPN experience
- Multiple admission start dates
- Comprehensive nursing prerequisites
- Accredited nursing program
- NCLEX preparation focus
Bachelor's - LPN-BSN Pathway
Campus Based - Visit Website
At Missouri Western State University, the campus-based LPN-BSN Pathway provides a structured route for LPNs to advance to a BSN degree. Applicants need a current PN license, a 2.7 GPA, and must complete the TEAS entrance exam. The 120-credit program includes credit evaluations to accelerate progress, combining online and in-person courses with comprehensive skills testing for a smooth transition into higher nursing roles.
- LPN to BSN pathway
- Minimum 2.7 GPA required
- 120 total credit hours
- Credit evaluation for LPNs
- Current PN licensure needed
- TEAS test required
- Accredited nursing program
- Multiple evaluation methods
- Online and in-person courses
- Comprehensive skills testing
Missouri State University-West Plains
West Plains, MO - Public 2-Year - wp.missouristate.edu
Associate - LPN-to-RN Bridge Program
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Missouri State University-West Plains provides an LPN-to-RN Bridge Program that is selective and hybrid, blending online coursework with seated components for flexibility. Requiring a 2.5 GPA and prerequisite courses, this 65-credit hour program can be finished in one academic year, awarding an Associate of Science in Nursing. Qualified LPNs receive 15 nursing credit hours, and the curriculum includes clinical rotations in Missouri and Arkansas, featuring preceptor-based training and flexible scheduling. With only two campus visits needed, it prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam, supporting career advancement without an ACT or SAT requirement.
- 65-credit hour nursing program
- Hybrid online/seated options
- One academic year completion
- 15 nursing credit hours
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Minimum 2.5 GPA required
- Clinical sites in MO/AR
- Preceptor-based clinical training
- Two campus visits required
- Flexible clinical scheduling
Moberly Area Community College
Moberly, MO - Public 2-Year - macc.edu
Associate - LPN to ADN Bridge Program
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Moberly Area Community College's LPN to ADN Bridge Program is a 12-month hybrid offering that blends online coursework with in-person labs and clinicals across four campuses. It equips licensed practical nurses with advanced skills through state-of-the-art simulation and real-life clinical experiences, preparing them for the NCLEX-RN exam and diverse nursing roles. The program emphasizes flexible education with pathways to baccalaureate degrees, and no entrance exams are required for this associate-level program.
- 12-month program duration.
- Hybrid online and on-campus format.
- Hands-on lab and clinical experiences.
- Available at four MACC campuses.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure exam.
- State-of-the-art simulation equipment.
- Real-life clinical experiences.
- Pathway to baccalaureate nursing programs.
- Flexible online education options.
- Face-to-face faculty engagement.
State Fair Community College
Sedalia, MO - Public 2-Year - sfccmo.edu
Associate - Associate Degree Nursing (Year Two)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
State Fair Community College's Associate Degree Nursing program offers a hybrid, competency-based pathway for LPNs to advance to RN roles, emphasizing seamless progression from practical to registered nursing. It features advanced placement for LPNs and paramedics, affordable tuition, and state-of-the-art technology for hands-on learning in diverse healthcare settings. The program is fully approved by the state board and prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam, with no ACT or SAT required as it is an associate-level program. Graduates can expect competitive salaries, making it a top choice for career growth.
- Hybrid program delivery
- Advanced placement options
- Top-rated nursing program
- Multiple campus locations
- Affordable tuition rates
- Fully state board approved
- Seamless Year 1 to Year 2 transition
- State-of-the-art learning technology
Missouri Valley College
Marshall, MO - Private 4-year - moval.edu
Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
Missouri Valley College's LPN to BSN program, offered online, is designed for LPNs seeking a bachelor's degree in nursing. It emphasizes a liberal arts foundation to bolster critical thinking and clinical skills, with multiple track options including online and face-to-face formats. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and adheres to Missouri State Board of Nursing standards. Admission requires a TEAS entrance exam score of at least 58.7%, a minimum GPA of 2.75, and completion of prerequisite courses. As a bachelor's-level program, it does not require the ACT or SAT. Key highlights include strong clinical practice opportunities and flexible scheduling for working professionals.
- Multiple BSN track options
- Liberal arts foundation
- Clinical experience opportunities
- CCNE accredited program
- TEAS score requirement 58.7%
- Minimum 2.75 GPA
- Online and on-campus formats
- Strong clinical practice focus
Missouri LPN to RN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
Missouri LPNs who plan to bridge to RN should prepare for selective admission. While each school sets its own standards, common requirements include:
- Active, unencumbered LPN license in Missouri or a multistate LPN license through the Nurse Licensure Compact, plus current employment may be preferred or required by some programs for advanced placement.
- Graduation from an approved practical nursing program with official transcripts.
- Minimum GPA in prerequisite coursework, often including human anatomy and physiology I and II with labs, microbiology, English composition, general psychology, lifespan development, and college algebra or statistics completed within a designated time frame.
- Standardized entry testing such as TEAS or HESI, and possible skills validation or advanced standing exams in pharmacology and fundamentals.
- Current BLS for Healthcare Providers CPR certification, required immunizations and titers, TB screening, urine drug screen, and physical exam meeting clinical affiliate requirements.
- Criminal background checks and clinical eligibility screenings in accordance with Missouri law and clinical site policies.
- Professional references, resume, and an interview or essay as required by the program.
Many Missouri programs grant advanced standing or transition credit to working LPNs after successful completion of bridge or transition courses, which can shorten the time to degree compared with a traditional RN track.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
Missouri LPN to RN bridge curricula build on practical nursing experience and emphasize competencies required of registered nurses. Expect coursework in:
- Adult health nursing across the lifespan, including medical surgical specialties.
- Mental health and psychiatric nursing.
- Maternal newborn and pediatric nursing.
- Nursing assessment, evidence based practice, pathophysiology, and advanced pharmacology for RNs.
- Nursing leadership, care coordination, quality and safety, and population health.
- High fidelity simulation and supervised clinical rotations in hospitals, long term care, community health, and ambulatory settings.
Accreditation and state approval are essential in Missouri. To be eligible for RN licensure by examination, you must graduate from a program approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. In addition, many Missouri employers and graduate programs expect institutional accreditation recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and programmatic accreditation, typically ACEN for associate degree programs and ACEN or CCNE for baccalaureate programs. Accreditation supports credit transfer, financial aid eligibility, and employer confidence in your education.
LPN to RN Schools and Classes
In Missouri, LPN to RN options are available at community and technical colleges that offer LPN to ADN bridges, as well as public and private universities that offer LPN to BSN pathways. Programs commonly provide advanced placement for LPNs after a transition course and skills validation.
Typical classes include transition to professional nursing, comprehensive health assessment for RNs, advanced adult health, complex care, maternal child and pediatric nursing, mental health nursing, community and population health, leadership and management, and evidence based practice. Clinical learning includes direct patient care and simulation, with increasing complexity and responsibility to prepare for the RN scope of practice and the NCLEX RN exam.
Career Outlook
Registered nurses in Missouri work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, community and public health agencies, long term care and rehabilitation centers, home health and hospice, schools, and specialty practices. Urban areas such as Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield, and Columbia host large health systems and academic medical centers, while rural regions offer opportunities in critical access hospitals and community facilities.
Compared with LPNs, RNs in Missouri practice with a broader scope, including comprehensive assessment, development and revision of nursing plans of care, independent nursing judgment, patient education, and leadership and delegation within teams. This expanded scope often correlates with more diverse roles, increased autonomy, and higher earning potential relative to LPN roles. Work schedules vary by setting, with hospitals offering 8 or 12 hour shifts and many ambulatory or community roles providing more traditional weekday hours.
LPN to RN Program Length
- Full time LPN to ADN: commonly 12 to 18 months of nursing coursework after prerequisites and transition requirements are met.
- Part time LPN to ADN: commonly 18 to 24 months or more, depending on course sequencing and clinical availability.
- Evening or weekend tracks: selected Missouri programs offer nontraditional schedules for working LPNs, often extending completion time by one or two semesters compared with daytime formats.
- LPN to BSN: typically 2 to 3 years of upper division coursework after prerequisites, with full time and part time plans of study available.
Timelines vary by the amount of transfer credit awarded, whether general education is complete, and clinical placement availability.
2026 Fastest LPN to RN Programs in Missouri
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Missouri State University-West Plains |
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| State Technical College of Missouri |
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| Saint Louis Community College |
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Tuition and Costs
Tuition for Missouri LPN to RN bridge programs varies by institution and residency status:
- LPN to ADN at community or technical colleges: commonly ranges from approximately the high four figures to the mid teens in total in state tuition for the nursing component, with additional costs for fees and prerequisites.
- LPN to BSN at public universities: commonly ranges from the high teens to mid five figures in total in state tuition for upper division nursing coursework, with private institutions typically higher.
Additional expenses to plan for include university fees, textbooks and digital resources, uniforms and equipment, immunizations and health checks, background check and drug screen, standardized testing, liability insurance, and NCLEX and state application fees at graduation.
Housing costs in Missouri depend on location and institution type. Community colleges may have limited or no on campus housing, leading many students to rent off campus. Public universities typically offer residence halls and meal plans. Rents and living costs are generally higher in major metros than in smaller cities and rural areas, so confirm options near your campus and clinical sites.
2026 Affordable LPN to RN Programs in Missouri
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Crowder College |
|
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| State Fair Community College |
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| Southwest Baptist University |
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Can I Take LPN to RN Classes Online?
Missouri schools offer a range of delivery formats:
- In person: traditional classroom, lab, simulation, and clinicals scheduled on campus and at local clinical sites.
- Hybrid: lecture content delivered online with required on campus skills labs, simulation, testing, and in person clinical rotations across Missouri healthcare facilities.
- Online enhanced: some theory courses may be fully online, but all prelicensure nursing programs require hands on clinical experiences with approved faculty supervision. Out of state programs that place students for clinicals in Missouri must comply with Missouri approval requirements.
Fully online pathways without in person clinicals are not available for prelicensure RN education. Expect to attend scheduled labs and clinical rotations within Missouri regardless of how theory courses are delivered.
LPN to RN Licensure Requirements in Missouri
NCLEX-RN Exam Information
After completing an LPN to ADN or LPN to BSN bridge program, you must pass the NCLEX-RN to become a Registered Nurse in Missouri. The process generally includes:
- Submit an application for RN licensure by examination to the Missouri Board of Nursingand pay the required fee.
- Arrange for your nursing program to send an official transcript directly to the Board showing degree conferral.
- Complete a state and federal fingerprint-based criminal background check as directed by the Board.
- Register for the exam through the official NCLEX-RNsite to receive your Authorization to Test after the Board declares you eligible.
- Schedule and take the exam. Upon passing and once all materials are received, the Board issues your RN license.
Graduates who need testing accommodations should submit documentation with their licensure application so the Board can approve accommodations before the Authorization to Test is issued.
RN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Missouri offers licensure by endorsement for RNs who hold an active, unencumbered RN license in another U.S. jurisdiction. Endorsement applicants must submit an application, verification of original licensure and education, a fingerprint-based criminal background check, and pay applicable fees. A temporary permit may be available for eligible endorsement applicants while the Board completes the full review.
Missouri is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). If your primary state of residence is another compact state and you hold a multistate RN license, you may practice in Missouri under multistate privilege without obtaining a separate Missouri license. If you relocate and declare Missouri as your primary state of residence, you must apply for a Missouri multistate RN license by endorsement; once issued, it becomes your multistate license. Missouri does not maintain separate reciprocity agreements outside the NLC framework.
Licensure Requirements
The Missouri Board of Nursing regulates RN licensure. Key requirements for initial RN licensure by examination include:
- Graduation from an approved RN program (including LPN to ADN or LPN to BSN bridge programs) that meets Missouri standards.
- Submission of a completed application and fees to the Board.
- Official transcript sent directly from the nursing education program to the Board.
- Fingerprint-based state and federal criminal background check.
- Successful passage of the NCLEX-RN.
Applicants educated outside Missouri or outside the United States may be asked for additional documentation to demonstrate program equivalency and, if applicable, English language proficiency. All applicants must meet the Board’s professional fitness and legal requirements before a license can be issued.
License Renewal
Missouri RN licenses are renewed on a biennial cycle and expire on April 30 of odd-numbered years. Renewal opens prior to the expiration date through the Board’s online system. Practicing on an expired license is prohibited; late or lapsed licenses require additional steps and fees to reinstate.
The Missouri Board of Nursing does not mandate continuing education hours for RN license renewal unless specified by an order of the Board. Keep your contact information current with the Board and complete the online renewal and required attestation by the renewal deadline to maintain active status.
Average LPN State Salary in Missouri
$58,900
2024 LPN Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
LPN to ADN Bridge Program
Program Length:
Typically 12 months or three semesters.
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing.
NCLEX-RN Eligibility:
Yes.
Program Focus:
This pathway concentrates on providing the foundational clinical skills and knowledge necessary for entry-level RN positions. The curriculum is designed to build upon the existing knowledge of LPNs, preparing them for the expanded scope of practice of a registered nurse.
Average In-State Tuition in Missouri:
While varying by institution, community colleges generally offer more affordable tuition rates, with programs costing between $10,000 and $20,000.
Best For:
LPNs seeking the quickest route to becoming an RN and entering the workforce with increased responsibilities and salary potential.
School Types:
Community colleges and technical colleges are the primary providers of LPN to ADN bridge programs in Missouri.
LPN to BSN Bridge Program
Program Length:
Generally two to three years, building on the LPN's prior education and experience.
Credential Awarded:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
NCLEX-RN Eligibility:
Yes.
Program Focus:
These programs offer a more comprehensive education that includes leadership, research, and public health nursing concepts, in addition to advanced clinical skills. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and prepare graduates for a wider range of nursing roles.
Average In-State Tuition in Missouri:
Tuition can vary significantly between public and private universities. As a general estimate, total program costs can be higher than ADN programs.
Best For:
LPNs aiming for leadership or specialized roles, and those who plan to pursue graduate-level nursing education in the future.
School Types:
Universities and four-year colleges, with some offering hybrid or online formats.
Choose LPN→ADN If:
- Faster Completion: The shorter program length allows for a quicker transition to an RN role.
- Lower Cost: Community college tuition is generally more affordable than university tuition.
- Immediate Career Advancement: Graduates can immediately access more job opportunities and higher salaries compared to LPNs.
- Foundation for Further Education: An ADN serves as a solid base for later pursuing a BSN through an RN to BSN bridge program.
Choose LPN→BSN If:
- Broader Career Opportunities: A BSN is often required for leadership, management, and specialized nursing positions.
- Higher Earning Potential: Over the long term, BSN-prepared nurses may have access to higher-paying roles.
- Foundation for Advanced Degrees: A BSN is the necessary stepping stone for master's or doctoral nursing programs.
- Comprehensive Skill Set: The curriculum provides a deeper understanding of nursing theory, research, and evidence-based practice.
List of LPN to RN Programs in Missouri
Bolivar, MO
Southwest Baptist University
- Associate - LPN or Paramedic - ASN Bridge Program
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year ASN degree.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Available at Springfield and Salem campuses.
- Small class sizes.
- Afternoon and evening classes.
- Christian higher education.
- 2.5+ GPA required for admission.
- Prerequisite courses required.
Bridgeton, MO
Saint Louis Community College
- Associate - RN Bridge Course
Campus Based - Website
- One-semester bridge course.
- Accelerated nursing degree path.
- For paramedics and LPNs.
- Starts at Wildwood campus.
- Expands to South County.
- Spring and fall enrollment.
- Builds on prior healthcare experience.
- Focuses on holistic nursing care.
Cottleville, MO
St. Charles Community College
- Associate - LPN Bridge program
Campus Based - Website
- LPN to RN Bridge pathway
- Approved by Missouri State Board
- Accredited nursing program
- Comprehensive clinical training
- Multiple healthcare career opportunities
Joplin, MO
Missouri Southern State University
- Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Campus Based - Website
- Approved 50 student annual cohorts
- Minimum 2.8 GPA requirement
- Multiple prerequisite science courses
- HESI A2 entrance exam required
- Comprehensive admission screening
- ACEN fully accredited program
- Current LPN license mandatory
- Rigorous clinical preparation
Kansas City, MO
Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City
- Associate - LPN to ADN Bridge Program
Campus Based - Website
- Three-semester nursing pathway
- Accredited by Nursing Education Commission
- Clinical rotations at top hospitals
- 74-80 total credit hours
- Transfer agreements with universities
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Hands-on learning environment
- Prerequisites required for admission
Linn, MO
State Technical College of Missouri
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Three-semester nursing program
- LPN to RN transition
- Clinical placements in healthcare agencies
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Competitive admission process
- 60 total credit hours
- Approved by Missouri State Board
- Drug screening required
Marshall, MO
Missouri Valley College
- Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Multiple BSN track options
- Liberal arts foundation
- Clinical experience opportunities
- CCNE accredited program
- TEAS score requirement 58.7%
- Minimum 2.75 GPA
- Online and on-campus formats
- Strong clinical practice focus
Moberly, MO
Moberly Area Community College
- Associate - LPN to ADN Bridge Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 12-month program duration.
- Hybrid online and on-campus format.
- Hands-on lab and clinical experiences.
- Available at four MACC campuses.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure exam.
- State-of-the-art simulation equipment.
- Real-life clinical experiences.
- Pathway to baccalaureate nursing programs.
Neosho, MO
Crowder College
- Associate - LPN To RN Bridge
Campus Based - Website
- Multiple campus locations
- Accredited nursing program
- Advanced standing for LPNs
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Flexible learning schedules
- Small class sizes
- Low tuition costs
Poplar Bluff, MO
Three Rivers College
- Associate - LPN-RN Bridge
Campus Based - Website
- LPN-RN Bridge pathway
- Associate of Applied Science degree
- 100% NCLEX pass rate
- Multiple campus locations
- Fully state board approved
- Clinical experiences included
- 2.0 minimum GPA requirement
- HESI admission assessment
Saint Joseph, MO
Missouri Western State University
- Associate - LPN-BSN Pathway
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Pathway for LPNs to BSN
- Hybrid program delivery
- Minimum 2.7 GPA required
- 120 total credit hours
- Unencumbered PN license needed
- Credit evaluation for LPN experience
- Multiple admission start dates
- Comprehensive nursing prerequisites
- Bachelor's - LPN-BSN Pathway
Campus Based - Website
- LPN to BSN pathway
- Minimum 2.7 GPA required
- 120 total credit hours
- Credit evaluation for LPNs
- Current PN licensure needed
- TEAS test required
- Accredited nursing program
- Multiple evaluation methods
Sedalia, MO
State Fair Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing (Year Two)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program delivery
- Advanced placement options
- Top-rated nursing program
- Multiple campus locations
- Affordable tuition rates
- Fully state board approved
- Seamless Year 1 to Year 2 transition
- State-of-the-art learning technology
West Plains, MO
Missouri State University-West Plains
- Associate - LPN-to-RN Bridge Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 65-credit hour nursing program
- Hybrid online/seated options
- One academic year completion
- 15 nursing credit hours
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Minimum 2.5 GPA required
- Clinical sites in MO/AR
- Preceptor-based clinical training
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